Although core values can be vital in both life and business, most don’t get the respect they deserve. To maximize the potential core values are designed to achieve, they must be more than just words that appear on a corporate marketing strategy. Leaders must be willing to walk the walk – not just talk the talk. For example, at our company, we partner with physicians and hospitals to help continually improve patient care. This core value is communicated throughout our organization to ensure we keep our focus on achieving next level outcomes in the healthcare industry. By definition, core values are clearly stated principles about an organization’s mission to align around a guiding philosophy that serves employees, customers, and broader communities. If core values can serve as cultural cornerstones and guide a company’s actions; what tips can leaders leverage to maximize potential? 

Instead of dismissing core values, recognize that they are the internal drivers of your most important actions says Jay Steinfeld, author of the book, Lead from the Core. Steinfeld explains that core values are the behind-the-scenes concepts that guide what we do, how we act, what we think, and how we present ourselves to the world. Steinfeld coins his set of suggested principles as the “four E’s” and believes they provide a reliable, constant guide for leaders and the organization’s they oversee.

4 Leadership E’s for Profit and Prosperity

1. Evolve Continuously – Always strive to improve yourself and your company.

2. Experiment Without Fear of Failure – Test new approaches without worrying whether every idea explored will be perfect. Failure can be a great teacher.

3. Express Yourself – Give employees permission to speak candidly.

4. Enjoy the Ride – Acknowledge that business and life can be tough but a positive attitude can help teams find the good in challenging times.

Each of the four E’s has the potential to empower change over time but requires patience. Steinfeld suggests practicing the four concepts one at a time because the payoff from embracing each principle compounds the power of the others. Most employees naturally reflect a leader’s attitude and actions – so be sure you are mindful to set an upbeat example that allows positivity to filter throughout your company. We’ve all read studies about how happy employees are more productive and engaged in the workplace. Since increased engagement tends to adhere to improved products, revenues and profits, it only makes sense for today’s forward-thinking leaders to explore every competitive advantage they can.

Don’t let your company core values end up only appearing on the back page of an annual report. Accept the challenges that come with creating core values because when you see the effort through, chances are, you and your team will reap the benefits of increased profit and prosperity.

LEADERSHIP CHALLENGE: To build something meaningful, you need to do more than dream about it. What “next steps” will you take in your workplace?

Brandon Rouse leads a diverse and growing team of professionals well-versed in the challenges facing healthcare today. Headquartered in Oklahoma City, OK, Brandon’s experienced team represents various technological and innovative medical solutions. ZB RX Medical is a direct distributor of Zimmer Biomet.